DC orders probe into
MeECL negligence

OUR CORRESPONDENT

Tura, Jan. 23: West Garo Hills deputy commissioner Pravin Bakshi has ordered a probe into the alleged negligence of Meghalaya Electricity Corporation Limited (MeECL), which led to the electrocution of five-year-old Chidam B. Marak.

Bakshi told The Telegraph, “We have ordered an inquiry. MeECL will be asked to respond. I assure that the guilty will be punished.” Social welfare minister Deborah C. Marak has also promised help for the boy. “Deborah Marak has asked us to send a report with a promise to help the boy,” Bakshi added.

Chidam lost both his arms after being electrocuted at Chasingre near Tura on November 16 last year. While returning from school, the child had urinated near the edge of a high voltage transformer, which led to the electrocution.

The right hand of the boy was amputated on November 26. His left hand, which has severe burn injuries, needs skin grafting. The victim’s father has appealed for help so that his son can get necessary medical aid for reconstruction surgery, prosthetic limbs and physiotherapy.

Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma had asked the deputy commissioner yesterday to immediately constitute an inquiry and take necessary action against those guilty.

The chief minister has also directed the MeECL to pay compensation for rehabilitation of the victim. He said, “Therapy needs to start for Chidam within a month, so support has to be quick as other complications may arise, making the process even more painful.”